Jakarta Bike Stores

Photo: Ian MacPherson.

I would  say that every large city in the world today has a strong bike scene and Jakarta is no different. When I was in an area called Senayan I spotted through a window of a large building what appeared to be a bike shop. I was with my father-in-law and my wife’s uncle at the time and we were heading out for lunch. I asked them if they wouldn’t mind if I had a “quick look” in that building because I thought there was a bike shop inside. When I entered the building it was a three level mall with not just one bike shop but about twenty. I couldn’t believe my eyes. And the quality and uniqueness of the bikes was incredible. I knew that a “quick look” was not going to be possible but a steak lunch was waiting. I knew I would have to come back if I could ever find my way.

Check out more pics at, Ciclo Fissato.

Cube bikes

I was recently in Jakarta for a ten day holiday. Four days into the holiday we went to visit some of my wife’s extended family. When we arrived we walked through the door and in the entrance hall was three Cube bikes. I realized immediately I had to ride one. I’m not sure if it was my cycling addiction kicking in or just the desire to ride a highly spec’d bike. I was introduced to Inal (the owner of all three Cube bikes) and quickly asked “can I take one of your bikes for ride?” He kindly said, “yes”. Thankfully he lived in a quiet back street where I was able to go for a short ride. It was a beautiful evening (warm obviously), no wind and the roads were flat. The Cube was beautiful to ride, the smoothest bike I’ve ever riden. It was a real treat, thanks Inal!